The Hightlights of Zambia
Description
Activities: Nature walks, day game drives, night game drives, guided safari walks, hot air balloon rides (August through October at additional discounted cost), market and cultural visits, optional Victoria Falls activities such as white water rafting, bungee jumping, gorge swing, micro-lighting (extra cost)
Who is it for?
Safari connoisseurs in need of an itinerary boasting the most scenic and diverse areas of the destination
What is it?
This 8-day safari combines two of Zambia’s core wildlife areas, the famous South Luangwa and expansive Kafue National Park, which includes the legendary Victoria Falls. Zambia is fast becoming Africa’s must-visit country for the safari connoisseur and this carefully-crafted safari offers a heady mix of game-rich destinations while travelling through a mosaic of complementary habitats. Explore it all on a mix of nature walks, day and night game drives, guided safari walks, hot air balloon rides, market and cultural visits, and even optional Victoria Falls activities such as whitewater rafting, bungee jumping, gorge swings, and micro-lighting.
Highlights: South Luangwa National Park, Kafue National Park, Busanga Plains, Victoria Falls
Season: June – November
Included/Excluded
Tour Amenities
Tour Duration
Duration
Starting Price
From
Contact Us for pricing
Travel Style
Tour Type
Day by Day Itinerary
Upon arrival at Lusaka International Airport, guests are met by a Wilderness Safaris representative and connect onto Kalamu Lagoon Camp. This remote and intimate camp is located in the exclusive Luamfwa Concession of South Luangwa National Park. South Luangwa’s history dates back some 30 years and is where the concept of walking safaris originated. This national park lies along the Luangwa River and is home to some of Africa’s largest concentrations of wildlife.
Area and Location: South Luangwa National Park covers about 9 050km2 (3 500 sq. miles) of the Luangwa Valley. The lifeblood of the park is the mighty Luangwa River which is one of the most pristine river ecosystems in Africa. The vegetation of the park is predominately dry woodland interspersed with floodplain grasslands, coupled with the dominating Luangwa River and its many languid oxbow lakes.
Wildlife: Unique and varied game species occur, from large herds of elephant and buffalo to impala and puku. Dominant predators include lion and leopard. The wide variety of antelope species seen include common waterbuck and reedbuck, bushbuck, kudu, Lichtenstein’s hartebeest, sable and roan. Unique to the area are Thornicroft’s giraffe as well as the Cookson’s wildebeest, both sub-species found nowhere else in the world. A healthy hippo population dot the riverbanks and the lagoon in front of camp. The birding is equally diverse, with regular sightings of Saddle-billed Stork, Lilian’s Lovebird, African Skimmer and even Bat Hawk.
Activities: Fascinating morning and afternoon-into-night game drives in 4X4 safari vehicles. This is coupled with the option of guided walking safaris – the most renowned in Africa.
The Camp: Kalamu Lagoon Camp is set under a canopy of giant ebony trees offering a vantage point with dreamy views of the lagoon and its wallowing inhabitants. Kalamu’s dining area is adjacent to a wonderful swimming pool and relaxing main area. The camp welcomes only 12 guests in Zambian safari-style reed and canvas tents with up to 8 guests in two family units, each en-suite with an indoor and outdoor shower. (D first day and B/L/D second and third day)
Return flight to Lusaka Airport to connect with charter flight to the Busanga Plains, Northern Kafue National Park.At 22,500km2 (8 600 sq. miles), Kafue National Park is one of the largest protected expanses in all Africa. The Busanga Plains is one of Zambia’s most important wetland and grassland resources and is untouched by development and human activity – the wildlife and wilderness jewel in the Kafue crown.
Area and Location: The amazing landscapes of the Busanga Plains comprise a web of estuaries, enormous grassy plains and island thickets. Comprising 750km2 (290 sq miles) of untouched Africa, our exclusive concession is centrally located on the Plains – ensuring optimal wildlife viewing in a truly remote and exciting wildlife setting.
Wildlife: Owing to the diverse ecology of the area, this portion area of the Kafue offers fantastic opportunities to see plains game, predators and water-loving animals. This camp is perfectly situated to see large numbers of puku and red lechwe as well as herds of buffalo and wildebeest. The most notable predators in the area are lions, with up to four prides moving around the Busanga area. Their tree-climbing antics are quite unique and allow for amazing photographic opportunities. Cheetah and side-striped jackal also roam the grassy areas as do the uncommon rare roan antelope which are locally common. For birders, Busanga boasts over 400 species, with notable species including Black-backed Barbet, Wattled Crane, Rosy-throated Longclaw and Red-throated Twinspot.
Activities: Morning and afternoon-into-evening game drives as well as early season (June and July) boat trips. Magnificent hot air balloon rides (August through October at additional discounted cost) provide a very different perspective of the Plains. The giant 8-person balloon floats above this unique landscape with uninterrupted views of the floodplains and its game.
The Camp: Busanga Bush Camp lies hidden in an island thicket. This camp can accommodate eight guests in four comfortable tents. The main and bar area of the camp is under a large canopy canvas and has a sweeping view out over the plains and its dramatic sunrises. The dining area is further shaded by under the canopy leafy branches of a sycamore fig tree from which a unusual lantern chandelier hangs, romantically lighting up dinner. An optional upgrade to Kapinga or Shumba is available at an additional cost.
* In the event that Busanga Bush Camp is at full confirmed occupancy, guests will be upgraded to Kapinga or Shumba at no extra cost. (B/L/D on all days)
After an early morning drive and breakfast, fly from Kafue National Park to Livingstone Airport, then transfer by road to Toka Leya Camp.Toka Leya is located on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River in the secluded Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park, and on the outskirts of Livingstone. This historical town was founded by the first European explorers to ‘discover’ the impressive Victoria Falls, and is today the tourism capital of Zambia.
Area and Location: Mosi-Oa-Tunya is directly translated as ‘the smoke that thunders’, the local name for the Victoria Falls which is found 12km (7.5 Miles) from camp and forms one of the main activities. This small but very important national park of the same name is 63km2 (24 sq. miles) and is host to a wonderful variety of habitat types from mopane woodland to a rich riverine fringe.
Wildlife: The Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park is home to a variety of herbivores such as impala, giraffe, white rhino and buffalo. In the drier season, herds of elephant come down through the camp to drink from the river and even swim across to the other side. The camp dawn chorus includes the comical ‘laughter’ of hippo which are often seen from the various camp vantages. The bird life along the Zambezi is just wonderful – African Finfoot, Half-collared Kingfisher and Schalow’s Turaco are some special finds.
Activities: Guided tours of Victoria Falls, cultural, museum and market tours, morning or evening game drives in MosiOa-Tunya Park and morning or evening boat cruises on the Zambezi River. Livingstone is rated as one of the world’s top destinations for adrenaline and river activities. The most popular of these include (at additional cost) seasonal white water rafting, bungee jumping, gorge swing, microlighting over the Falls, brunch and breakfast canoe trips on the Zambezi and Falls-edge dining.
The Camp: This contemporary but warm camp consists of 12 climate-controlled units on elevated wooden decks. Each unit has inside and outside showers as well as sweeping views of the Zambezi River from a comfortable balcony. Extending out onto the Zambezi River is the main area with novel pizza oven, bar and infinity pool and spa area. The camp also has a well-stocked curio shop selling arts and crafts made by local villagers. Toka Leya Camp can be substituted with The River Club at no additional cost.
Safari Tip: Due to the range and variety of activities, we recommend additional nights at this camp. (B/L/D)
After a relaxing start to the day (or last morning activity), transfer by road to Livingstone Airport for outbound flight or continuing arrangements. (B)
Explore Tours
Activities: Nature walks, day game drives, night game drives, guided safari walks, hot air balloon rides (August through October at additional discounted cost), market and cultural visits, optional Victoria Falls activities such as white water rafting, bungee jumping, gorge swing, micro-lighting (extra cost)
Who is it for?
Safari connoisseurs in need of an itinerary boasting the most scenic and diverse areas of the destination
What is it?
This 8-day safari combines two of Zambia’s core wildlife areas, the famous South Luangwa and expansive Kafue National Park, which includes the legendary Victoria Falls. Zambia is fast becoming Africa’s must-visit country for the safari connoisseur and this carefully-crafted safari offers a heady mix of game-rich destinations while travelling through a mosaic of complementary habitats. Explore it all on a mix of nature walks, day and night game drives, guided safari walks, hot air balloon rides, market and cultural visits, and even optional Victoria Falls activities such as whitewater rafting, bungee jumping, gorge swings, and micro-lighting.
Highlights: South Luangwa National Park, Kafue National Park, Busanga Plains, Victoria Falls
Season: June – November
Included/Exclude
Tour Amenities
Tour Plan
Upon arrival at Lusaka International Airport, guests are met by a Wilderness Safaris representative and connect onto Kalamu Lagoon Camp. This remote and intimate camp is located in the exclusive Luamfwa Concession of South Luangwa National Park. South Luangwa’s history dates back some 30 years and is where the concept of walking safaris originated. This national park lies along the Luangwa River and is home to some of Africa’s largest concentrations of wildlife.
Area and Location: South Luangwa National Park covers about 9 050km2 (3 500 sq. miles) of the Luangwa Valley. The lifeblood of the park is the mighty Luangwa River which is one of the most pristine river ecosystems in Africa. The vegetation of the park is predominately dry woodland interspersed with floodplain grasslands, coupled with the dominating Luangwa River and its many languid oxbow lakes.
Wildlife: Unique and varied game species occur, from large herds of elephant and buffalo to impala and puku. Dominant predators include lion and leopard. The wide variety of antelope species seen include common waterbuck and reedbuck, bushbuck, kudu, Lichtenstein’s hartebeest, sable and roan. Unique to the area are Thornicroft’s giraffe as well as the Cookson’s wildebeest, both sub-species found nowhere else in the world. A healthy hippo population dot the riverbanks and the lagoon in front of camp. The birding is equally diverse, with regular sightings of Saddle-billed Stork, Lilian’s Lovebird, African Skimmer and even Bat Hawk.
Activities: Fascinating morning and afternoon-into-night game drives in 4X4 safari vehicles. This is coupled with the option of guided walking safaris – the most renowned in Africa.
The Camp: Kalamu Lagoon Camp is set under a canopy of giant ebony trees offering a vantage point with dreamy views of the lagoon and its wallowing inhabitants. Kalamu’s dining area is adjacent to a wonderful swimming pool and relaxing main area. The camp welcomes only 12 guests in Zambian safari-style reed and canvas tents with up to 8 guests in two family units, each en-suite with an indoor and outdoor shower. (D first day and B/L/D second and third day)
Return flight to Lusaka Airport to connect with charter flight to the Busanga Plains, Northern Kafue National Park.At 22,500km2 (8 600 sq. miles), Kafue National Park is one of the largest protected expanses in all Africa. The Busanga Plains is one of Zambia’s most important wetland and grassland resources and is untouched by development and human activity – the wildlife and wilderness jewel in the Kafue crown.
Area and Location: The amazing landscapes of the Busanga Plains comprise a web of estuaries, enormous grassy plains and island thickets. Comprising 750km2 (290 sq miles) of untouched Africa, our exclusive concession is centrally located on the Plains – ensuring optimal wildlife viewing in a truly remote and exciting wildlife setting.
Wildlife: Owing to the diverse ecology of the area, this portion area of the Kafue offers fantastic opportunities to see plains game, predators and water-loving animals. This camp is perfectly situated to see large numbers of puku and red lechwe as well as herds of buffalo and wildebeest. The most notable predators in the area are lions, with up to four prides moving around the Busanga area. Their tree-climbing antics are quite unique and allow for amazing photographic opportunities. Cheetah and side-striped jackal also roam the grassy areas as do the uncommon rare roan antelope which are locally common. For birders, Busanga boasts over 400 species, with notable species including Black-backed Barbet, Wattled Crane, Rosy-throated Longclaw and Red-throated Twinspot.
Activities: Morning and afternoon-into-evening game drives as well as early season (June and July) boat trips. Magnificent hot air balloon rides (August through October at additional discounted cost) provide a very different perspective of the Plains. The giant 8-person balloon floats above this unique landscape with uninterrupted views of the floodplains and its game.
The Camp: Busanga Bush Camp lies hidden in an island thicket. This camp can accommodate eight guests in four comfortable tents. The main and bar area of the camp is under a large canopy canvas and has a sweeping view out over the plains and its dramatic sunrises. The dining area is further shaded by under the canopy leafy branches of a sycamore fig tree from which a unusual lantern chandelier hangs, romantically lighting up dinner. An optional upgrade to Kapinga or Shumba is available at an additional cost.
* In the event that Busanga Bush Camp is at full confirmed occupancy, guests will be upgraded to Kapinga or Shumba at no extra cost. (B/L/D on all days)
After an early morning drive and breakfast, fly from Kafue National Park to Livingstone Airport, then transfer by road to Toka Leya Camp.Toka Leya is located on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River in the secluded Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park, and on the outskirts of Livingstone. This historical town was founded by the first European explorers to ‘discover’ the impressive Victoria Falls, and is today the tourism capital of Zambia.
Area and Location: Mosi-Oa-Tunya is directly translated as ‘the smoke that thunders’, the local name for the Victoria Falls which is found 12km (7.5 Miles) from camp and forms one of the main activities. This small but very important national park of the same name is 63km2 (24 sq. miles) and is host to a wonderful variety of habitat types from mopane woodland to a rich riverine fringe.
Wildlife: The Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park is home to a variety of herbivores such as impala, giraffe, white rhino and buffalo. In the drier season, herds of elephant come down through the camp to drink from the river and even swim across to the other side. The camp dawn chorus includes the comical ‘laughter’ of hippo which are often seen from the various camp vantages. The bird life along the Zambezi is just wonderful – African Finfoot, Half-collared Kingfisher and Schalow’s Turaco are some special finds.
Activities: Guided tours of Victoria Falls, cultural, museum and market tours, morning or evening game drives in MosiOa-Tunya Park and morning or evening boat cruises on the Zambezi River. Livingstone is rated as one of the world’s top destinations for adrenaline and river activities. The most popular of these include (at additional cost) seasonal white water rafting, bungee jumping, gorge swing, microlighting over the Falls, brunch and breakfast canoe trips on the Zambezi and Falls-edge dining.
The Camp: This contemporary but warm camp consists of 12 climate-controlled units on elevated wooden decks. Each unit has inside and outside showers as well as sweeping views of the Zambezi River from a comfortable balcony. Extending out onto the Zambezi River is the main area with novel pizza oven, bar and infinity pool and spa area. The camp also has a well-stocked curio shop selling arts and crafts made by local villagers. Toka Leya Camp can be substituted with The River Club at no additional cost.
Safari Tip: Due to the range and variety of activities, we recommend additional nights at this camp. (B/L/D)
After a relaxing start to the day (or last morning activity), transfer by road to Livingstone Airport for outbound flight or continuing arrangements. (B)
